Maple News reports that HDFC Bank, India’s leading private sector bank, has joined forces with Canada’s TD Bank Group to streamline the path for Indian students preparing to study in Canada. The collaboration introduces a referral program aimed at simplifying the application process for the Student Direct Stream (SDS) study permit — a fast-tracked immigration route managed by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
The key benefit of this partnership lies in facilitating access to TD’s International Student Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC) program. Indian students applying through the SDS stream are required to show proof of financial support, which typically includes obtaining a GIC from a Canadian financial institution. This new referral process makes it easier to open a TD GIC online, with no application fees and the added benefit of earning interest even before arrival in Canada.
The SDS pathway, available to eligible applicants from India and 13 other countries, offers expedited study permit processing — with a targeted turnaround of 20 calendar days compared to the standard 10-week timeframe. By simplifying the financial documentation process, the HDFC-TD partnership allows students to meet one of the key SDS requirements more efficiently.
Under the program, referred students can also access a TD Student Chequing Account, offering no monthly fees (for students under 23 or those enrolled full-time), unlimited transactions, and a range of value-added financial services.
Once students land in Canada, TD’s extensive network of over 1,000 branches — many open for longer hours than competing banks — offers a welcoming experience. The bank also provides multilingual support, including services in Hindi, Punjabi, Tamil, Gujarati, and Urdu, catering to the diverse Indian student population. Digital banking services via the TD app add another layer of convenience.
TD’s commitment goes beyond just banking: students also receive financial guidance to support both everyday spending and long-term financial planning. Personalized advice is available in-branch or over the phone to ensure students build strong financial habits from the start.
This collaboration between HDFC Bank and TD Bank not only enhances financial accessibility but also reinforces both institutions’ dedication to supporting international education. With smoother processes and tailored services, the partnership is well positioned to benefit thousands of Indian students looking to make Canada their academic destination.
Maple News will continue to monitor developments in international student mobility and how financial institutions are innovating to support global education goals.